You have one shot to look as cool as Cara Delevingne on a Vogue spread for your learning license photo. Luckily, there are ways to ensure you nail the picture and look more relaxed than a Valencia filter ever could.
Preparing for your photo ahead of time, dressing well, and being polite to the person taking your picture will give you a great result that you’ll be happy with.
1. Smile naturally
A friendly smile is a must for a driver’s license photo. This is because the camera will capture your facial expression, and it would be a shame to end up with a picture that makes you look unfriendly. However, it would be best if you did not go overboard with a huge smile. This is because too much of a smile can make your face look unnatural and fake.
The best way to smile naturally is to think about people or things that make you happy. This is one of the oldest tricks in the book, and it works like a charm. For example, if you’re thinking about ice cream or dogs, it will make you happy, and it will also look natural in the photo.
You can also try to relax and calm yourself before taking the photo. You can do this by breathing deeply or singing your favorite song. Another good trick is to close your eyes a few seconds before the camera takes the photo and then slowly open them right before it snaps the shutter. This will help you avoid squinting and make your eye color look more natural in the photo.
In addition, you should try to avoid wearing heavy makeup for your photo. Too much makeup can distract the cameras from recognizing your face, and it will also create a wet skin effect, which is not appropriate for such a photo. Instead, it would be best if you chose light makeup and neutral or soft color tones to enhance your beauty rather than cover it up.
Finally, it would be best if you practiced smiling in front of a mirror or a smartphone camera before you take a photo for your learning license. This will help you get used to looking into the lens, and it will also give you a sense of how much of your smile will be visible in the final photo.
2. Look in the camera
Most driver’s license photos look awful. That’s because they’re taken at a wrong angle to flatter no one. They also reflect what someone might look like if they were pulled over for an infraction, which is not necessarily desirable.
When you’re taking your learning license photo, sit up straight and keep your mouth closed. Make sure your hair isn’t covering your eyes, even if you wear it for cultural or religious reasons. Also, if you wear glasses for driving, remove them from the photo. Facial prosthetics and eye patches are okay. Color or black-and-white photos are accepted, whichever you prefer.
3. Wear clothes you feel comfortable concentrating on
Many people get nervous at the idea of taking a license photo, so they try to be sexy or funny for the camera. This is a big no-no. Instead, wear clothes that will help the picture to highlight your eyes and face. Avoid bright colors and patterns to keep the focus on your face. It’s also a good idea to wear neutral-colored pieces so you don’t look washed out.
It would be best if you also took care of your makeup for your photo. For example, while a bit of mascara or lipstick is OK, too much can make you look washed out. It would help if you also avoided glitter and shimmer, as these can create a messy appearance. Instead, go for a natural look with a bit of rosy blush and some clear lip gloss.
Finally, you should avoid wearing any headgear or accessories that conceal your eyes or face. This includes hats, scarves, and even hoodies (though some facilities may allow you to wear a religious head covering or similar garment if necessary). It’s best to leave your glasses at home, too – law enforcement officers will have difficulty identifying you if your eyes are concealed in the picture.
If you’re not happy with the results of your photo, don’t be afraid to ask for another shot! It’s usually no problem, especially if you’re polite and the facility isn’t bustling. Just remember to bring a good attitude, and you’ll be able to take an excellent learning license photo that will last for years to come!
